The Magnitude of Hiring the Right Medical Malpractice LawyerInjured as a result of a doctor’s error? Protect yourself from further harm by hiring a lawyer with experience to handle your medical malpractice case.

The scratch on your arm looks small and innocent enough, but the pain it has created is unreal. It’s swollen, throbbing, and red, and ever since it showed up, you just haven’t felt right. You visited your doctor, and after a quick exam, he gave you antibiotics. Days later, the cut hasn’t improved, and you believe it has actually become worse.

Could You Have Necrotizing Fasciitis?

Flesh-eating bacteria seems like something made up out of a horror movie, but the scary truth is, it’s real. Also known as necrotizing fasciitis, the dangerous bacteria enter into your blood stream, and aggressively attack the skin, muscle, and tissue. Although it is rare, data shows that between 600 and 700 people become infected with flesh-eating bacteria each year, and about a quarter of those victims die.

Typically, those who are healthy and practice good hygiene and wound care aren’t at risk for developing this potentially fatal condition. People who have underlying medical conditions that decrease their ability to fight infection, however, have a higher chance of becoming sick from the bacteria. For example, those with diabetes, kidney problems, cancer, and other chronic illnesses are more likely to become infected with necrotizing fasciitis.

The Symptoms of Flesh-Eating Bacteria

Doctors may miss the diagnosis because the symptoms of flesh-eating bacteria are similar to other, less dangerous, issues. For example, some patients describe the pain and soreness associated with the infection as comparable to that of a pulled muscle. They may also experience chills, fever, nausea, and fatigue. The area surrounding the wound may feel warm to the touch and appear swollen, red or purple, or may even have blisters or dark spots. Unfortunately, by the time the severe and distinguishing symptoms appear, it may be too late for effective treatment.

Did a Medical Mistake Result in Your Necrotizing Fasciitis?

Your doctor may have overlooked the severity of your infection, and you became severely ill as a result. Fortunately, you may be able to hold him accountable for the pain you experienced, as well as the medical bills you have. The attorneys of the Holton Law Firm want to help you get justice for your doctor’s negligence, and may be able to get you the compensation you deserve. Schedule an appointment to speak to an experienced legal professional by calling 888-443-4387 and get started fighting for your rights.